To kick off Makati Medical Center’s (MakatiMed) 55th anniversary, the institution proudly celebrates its rich history of medical breakthroughs, compassionate care, and unwavering dedication to the community via A Celebration of Milestones & Triumphs. The event, held last April 29, presented remarkable cases that have shaped the landscape of healthcare in the Philippines.
Navigating through decades of medical milestones and challenges, the hospital organized the event as a tribute to its community and the patients that trusted MakatiMed. Medical Director and Co-Interim President and CEO, Saturnino P. Javier, MD emphasized the significance of this gathering in his opening remarks, stating, “From this vast multitude of clinical scenarios, there are stories that are deeply told and reviewed, there are lessons that need to be shared, victories that need to be held, and memories that need to be remembered.”
The celebration featured presentations highlighting milestone cases that underscore MakatiMed’s commitment to excellence and quality patient care. From groundbreaking surgeries to innovative treatments, each case exemplified the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defines the institution. Notable presentations included:
- Maricar U. Factor’s pioneering brain bypass surgery, led by Attending Physician Guillermo Victorino T. Liabres, MD.
- Jovit L. Garcia’s historic Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) implantation, spearheaded by Attending Physician Anthony B. King, Jr., MD.
- Mae C. Syki-Young, MD’s successful delivery of triplets, showcasing the expertise of Attending Physician Pacita S. Lazaro, MD.
- Esther P. Marcaida’s journey as a patient living with double primary cancer, under the care of Attending Physician Regina T. Edusma-Dy, MD.
- 9-month-old Kyle Orion O. Kakal’s open-heart surgery, led by Attending Physician Aurelia G. Leus, MD.
- Michaela Francesca M. Muñoz’s awake craniotomy, guided by Attending Physician Michael N. Sabalza, MD.
- Norberto A. Meriales, MD’s remarkable recovery from severe critical COVID-19, under the care of Attending Physician Janice C. Caoili, MD.
- Patricia M. Zobel de Ayala’s prolonged Extracorporeal Circulation for Cardiopulmonary Insufficiency using Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), overseen by Attending Physician Raul L. Lapitan, MD.
- The successful separation of conjoined twins, Michael Paul and Sean Peter Clemeña, in 1994, led by Attending Physician Jose Dante P. Dator, MD.
The event also featured heartfelt testimonials detailing difficulties and successes on their journey through a video presentation. Patient representative Norberto A. Meriales, MD also expressed his gratitude for the exceptional care and dedication of the MakatiMed community.
As Makati Medical Center looks towards the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to provide compassionate care, drive innovation, and inspire hope in patients and communities—true to its brand as the Hospital with a Heart.
